Kees Weel's embattled PWR operation is set to resume V8 Supercar operations in 2008 in order to avoid hefty fines for not running its series franchise.
Andrew Thompson has been signed to drive for the team, which will downsize to a single car operation for this year's championship.
With former sponsor Supercheap Auto departing to Paul Morris Motorsports, the team will be sponsored by the Weel family's business – PWR Performance Products – in addition to minor support from Hog's Breath Café and InvestQld.com.
It will be Thompson's first full-time season in V8 Supercars, having driven in the Fujitsu Series for the past two years.
The team, which was originally set to fold at the conclusion of the 2007 series, will continue to operate out of Dandenong South, and will utilise technical assistance from Walkinshaw Performance – the company which runs the Holden Racing Team and Toll HSV Dealer Team, and provides technical support to Team BOC and Garry Rogers Motorsport.
“You've got to introduce new blood and Andrew's a fast and extremely talented young bloke worthy of being given a go,” said Kees Weel.
“When this opportunity came up it wasn't a difficult decision to jump straight back in.
“With continued technical support from Walkinshaw Performance we'll give Andrew a good car and he'll impress.”
Despite these comments, it is believed that the team has struck difficulty in selling its racing licence and is obliged to continue racing in the series, else be fined for not attendance.
Regardless, Thompson has been given the opportunity to step up into the top level of Australian Touring Car racing, and will take the reins of the #50 PWR VE Commodore.
“The first goal is to get into the car and get comfortable before Adelaide, while also trying to feel the difference between the Commodore and Falcon,” said Thompson.
“The only pressure I feel when I'm racing comes from within me, trying to achieve what I've set my sights on. If I can satisfy myself, then everything else will be looked after.”
PWR Racing will take to the track at the season opening Clipsal 500 Adelaide on February 21st.
